Nov 19, 2022; College Park, MD, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau (44) celebrates his sack of Maryland Terrapins quarterback Taulia Tagovailoa (3) in the second quarter of their Big Ten game at SECU Stadium. Ceb Osu22mar Kwr 35 Kyle Robertson/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK

Colts' Day 2 Draft Grade Revealed

Originally posted on Indianapolis Colts on SI
By Drake Wally | Last updated Apr 26, 2025 7:00 AM ET

The Indianapolis Colts' second day of the NFL draft has concluded, and the roster looks a bit different with two new defenders added to Lou Anarumo's scheme. Round two (45th overall) consisted of Ohio State's defensive end J.T. Tuimoloau, and the third (80th overall) was Minnesota's cornerback Justin Walley.

J.T. Tuimoloau | Edge | Ohio State ⚡️

3 time First-Team All-Big Ten
21.5 TFL in 2024 (3rd in FBS)
12.5 sacks in 2024 (T-5th in FBS)
National champion | 6.5 sacks in four playoff games

What do you think of this pick Colts fans? pic.twitter.com/ymSjS0A6hW
— SleeperColts (@SleeperColts) April 26, 2025

Starting with Tuimoloau, he was a force for the Ohio State Buckeyes off the edge during their championship run in 2024, with 12.5 sacks, 22 tackles for loss, and 61 total tackles. He was also a pass-rushing machine with 51 quarterback pressures per Pro Football Focus.

The defensive edge wasn't previously a need, but became one once the Chicago Bears acquired Dayo Odeyingbo from Indianapolis through free agency when the Colts couldn't afford his services. General manager Chris Ballard understood that Indy's defensive trenches must be solidified, and now that is the case.

Tuimoloau's role in Anarumo's defense will be something to monitor as the ultra-talented pass-rusher will look to hit the ground running in the Circle City.

Next was Walley, who surprised some when his name was called for Indy's 80th overall selection. This is mostly due to the other needs for the roster, like offensive line, linebacker, defensive interior, and safety depth.

However, general manager Ballard was adamant about the pick, calling the former Golden Gopher 'freaking good.'

#Colts GM Chris Ballard on CB Justin Walley:

“He's freaking good. He's really good. He broke his wrist, and in a time where people don't want to workout, he does everything.. with a cast on. 40 game starter in B1G. He's athletic, fast, can play outside and in.”

: @Colts pic.twitter.com/k4wxOxbJ3w
— Noah Compton (@nerlens_) April 26, 2025

Walley was a productive defensive back in his time in the Big Ten, tallying 155 tackles (113 solo), 27 passes defended, seven picks, and a defensive score. Walley's 49 games of experience will play into his favor as he embarks on a journey to stand out in a cornerback group that features names like Charvarius Ward, Jaylon Jones, JuJu Brents, Kenny Moore II, and Samuel Womack III.

The Colts came away with a much-needed selection in Tuimoloau while confusing some with the Walley selection at 80th. Regardless, Anarumo's defense is getting shored up in areas that can help him hit the ground running in year one in the Circle City.

For reference, Tuimoloau received a B, and Walley received a C+, so the overall grade from the day is still respectable but not necessarily out of this world. For day two, Indianapolis gets a fair evaluation, with areas left to fill in rounds four, five, six, and seven to conclude the draft.

Grade: B-

Recommended Articles

This article first appeared on Indianapolis Colts on SI and was syndicated with permission.

More must-reads: